Hosted Network FAQ's

What is Utility Computing?
Utility Computing is a highly secure and cost effective IT method providing anywhere/anytime access to a company's complete network. Utility Computing allows organizations to rid themselves of complex and expensive IT infrastructure and focus on their core business. More and more, businesses are turning to Utility Computing to take advantage of a lower cost of ownership and increase return on IT investments.

How is Utility different from a traditional in house IT department?
With Utility Computing, companies are not required to set up and manage complex and expensive IT infrastructures. Additionally, network access is more convenient and flexible. In many organizations, daily backup may be unheard of - with Utility Computing, you can rest assured that data is secure and backed up daily, more easily facilitating any disaster recovery. Our Utility Computing model is a complete enterprise level infrastructure that has been designed to be completely redundant meaning less to no down time for you.

How much will all this cost?
Utility Computing systems are much less expensive than you think. All costs are calculated on a per user basis and in all cases are tremendously less than doing it in house. With Utility Computing, your organization will never purchase core infrastructure hardware or Microsoft office applications again.

How Secure is Utility Computing?
Security is one of our primary concerns. Microsoft Terminal Server client utilizes a 128 bit bi-directional encryption to insure security. Our technology partner was recently recognized by Microsoft for their "superior approach to continually updating and improving Windows® platform security by providing exceptional security infrastructure and management to customers". The technology meets or exceeds several industry standards such as HIPAA and Gramm-Leach Bliley acts. We utilizing multiple security technologies and techniques to make your network as secure as possible. In addition we regularly test the security infrastructure for possible holes or weaknesses.

Other than Microsoft Suite, what other programs can be hosted?
We currently host more than 40 third party applications. Chances are, if you are using an "off the shelf" software package, we already may be hosting it. Additionally, we have found most proprietary software programs can also be on the hosted platform.

Does the Aerus Systems Utility Computing conform to HIPAA and Gramm-Leach Bliley standards?
Yes, the system is fully compliant with both HIPAA and Gramm-Leach Bliley standards with full documentation.

What about keeping Microsoft applications upgraded, how expensive is that?
One of the best things about Aerus Systems Utility Computing is all Microsoft applications upgrades are included in the per user fee. We will perform system-wide upgrades with no additional cost to the organization. Just think about the time and money this will save your organization.

Why switch from a traditional IT infrastructure?
If you have an IT infrastructure in place, you already know expensive it is to maintain and upgrade. Relieve your organization from spending money to clean up or remove possible infections and reduce the potential for lost productivity. Our locked down desktop solution prevents employees from downloading software via the Web or floppy resulting in fewer viruses, reduced risk of data loss and less downtime. Plus, you are given a flat up front cost that you can predict and plan for. No more hidden costs for upgrades or support.

What if we need to add or remove users?
Utility Computing can dynamically adapt with your business as you grow or downsize. Users can be added or removed almost instantly allowing increased flexibility. And unlike an in house IT department, you pay only for what is needed per user.

Are you Microsoft Certified?
Our technology partner is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner.

What kind of internet connection do I need for Utility Computing?
Typically, a DSL or CABLE connection is more than sufficient for up to a midsized company. Of course, if your company's size dictates, a T1 may be better suited.

What about support?
Aerus Systems provides 24/7 full helpdesk support. You have access to enterprise level support without an expensive staff to hire and support.

Do we need special software for network access?
No. One of the great benefits of Utility Computing is that network access is available from any internet enabled computer.